Fulham 0–1 Man United: League leaders extend advantage in title race

Rooney ran forward with great purpose after 78 minutes and stroked a measured finish into the far corner.

The striker had earlier hit the post in a match in which both teams threatened and Fulham's Bryan Ruiz was also denied by the woodwork.

Ruiz also had a header cleared off the line just before Rooney struck.

In the opening half hour United had hit the woodwork three times in what proved to be a frustrating period for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.

On 42 minutes the game was stopped as the floodlights went out and all the players were called to the sidelines. After a couple of minutes both teams went to the dressing rooms as the problem was resolved and 10 minutes later the players returned to complete the first half.

Fulham throughout the match posed an attacking threat and forced United’s keeper into making a couple of excellent saves.

The game appeared to be meandering towards an entertaining goalless draw before Rooney intervened.

Manchester United are now unbeaten in 13 games as they aim to reclaim the title from Manchester City.